Sandro Fay has been producing wines in
Valtellina for the past 40 years, and is dedicated to single-vineyard
expressions of this unique and historic terroir. Upriver from Lake Como,
near the Swiss border, the Valtellina DOCG sits in a narrow valley that
runs east/west at the base of the alps, which protect its sunny
climate. The signature grape is Nebbiolo, known locally as Chiavennasca.
Fay's Costa Bassa vineyard is located in the village of Teglio,
designated as "Valtellina Superiore," one of the finest terroirs in the
appellation. In this cooler, sub-alpine climate, the grapes are allowed
to slowly ripen until late October, and the wine is aged in large oak
casks for 12 months before bottling. Fresh and elegant, with bright
fruit flavors and soft, velvety tannins, this wine is a true expression
of the varietal.

This is a bright and juicy style of Nebbiolo with a good
measure of savor to make it interesting. A few minutes in the glass
reveals flavors of cherry, potpourri, white pepper, and a hint of
woodsmoke. There is a feminine persistence and vigor to the
medium-bodied structure and a which is just right to enjoy with
charcuterie.